"There have been quite a number of initiatives to address climate change but we have a worry that these are maybe focussing too much on finances, on things like commercial trade bar interests and so on," he said.

"They are turning away from the real issue which is to address climate change."

Mr Sopoaga says climate change has created a dire situation for many small Pacific nations.

He says larger developed nations must shoulder more responsibility in tackling the problem.

"We need to elevate this issue on the global level to the highest possible level and make strong political leadership commitment on addressing climate change," he said.